In recent developments, BJP’s rebel MLA Basanagouda Patil Yatnal has been making statements against the party leadership, particularly targeting state president BY Vijayendra and his supporters. These comments have triggered a backlash from the Yediyurappa family, sparking unrest within the party. Yatnal’s remarks have caused party workers, especially those loyal to Vijayendra, to demand his expulsion from the party, accusing him of promoting a superficial form of Hindutva. This demand was echoed by BJP workers in Mysuru, who voiced their concerns over his divisive approach.
In the midst of this turmoil, several former legislators, including MP Renukacharya, Katta Subrahmanya Naidu, Basavaraj Naik, Madal Virupakshappa, M.D. Lakshminarayana, B.C. Patil, Basavaraj Dadesgouda, and Ramachandrappa, gathered at Yediyurappa’s residence in Dollar’s Colony for a high-profile breakfast meeting. The former legislators, along with Yediyurappa, discussed the ongoing issues surrounding Yatnal’s behavior and the growing tensions within the party.
This meeting came shortly after Vijayendra traveled to Delhi to file a complaint with the BJP high command, urging them to take action against Yatnal’s disruptive actions. During the meeting with Yediyurappa, there was a focused discussion on how to address Yatnal’s remarks and to prevent further internal conflicts. The gathering of former legislators expressed their discontent with Yatnal’s behavior, stating that instead of uniting against the Congress government, internal discord within their ranks was intensifying. This division, they argued, was benefiting the opposition party.
The former legislators also expressed frustration that, despite being aware of Yatnal’s tendencies, senior party leaders have been reluctant to take any decisive action against him. The lack of accountability and criticized the leadership for not addressing the issue sooner.
As December approaches, there is growing speculation that a change in leadership, particularly concerning Vijayendra, may be on the horizon. Some of Yatnal’s supporters have now begun questioning Vijayendra’s position, suggesting that he too might be under scrutiny. The constant turmoil caused by Yatnal’s statements has left BJP workers feeling disgruntled, and there are calls for strict disciplinary action against him. If such measures are implemented, it is expected that those allied with Yatnal may also distance themselves from him, ending the ongoing internal strife.
